Nebraska Defensive Backs Coach Resigns; Replacement Expected to be Hired

Nebraska Cornhuskers' defensive backs coach Evan Cooper has resigned from his position for personal reasons, 247Sports has confirmed. Cooper, who has worked closely with head coach Matt Rhule for several years, will be stepping aside just as the team gears up for fall camp.

The Cornhuskers wasted no time in finding a replacement and are reportedly set to hire former Buffalo Bills defensive backs coach John Butler, according to ESPN. Butler's experience and expertise are expected to be a valuable addition to the Nebraska coaching staff.

Cooper's departure comes at an inconvenient time for the team as fall camp is scheduled to begin at the end of July, with their first game against UTEP on August 31st. However, Nebraska is determined to minimize any disruption and ensure a smooth transition in coaching responsibilities.

Cooper has been a loyal disciple of Coach Rhule, having worked with him at multiple stops throughout his career. They first teamed up in 2013 when Rhule, in his inaugural year at Temple, hired Cooper as a graduate assistant. They later moved on to Baylor in 2017, where Cooper took on the role of director of player personnel. In 2018, he transitioned to become an on-field coach, overseeing the secondary and defensive line.

Rhule's departure to the Carolina Panthers in 2020 led to Cooper's appointment as cornerbacks coach and director of player evaluation. However, he was not retained when Rhule was relieved of his responsibilities in 2022. The duo then relocated to Nebraska before the 2023 season.

In light of Cooper's sudden departure, Nebraska may employ an alternative solution to smoothen the transition. Thanks to a recent NCAA ruling, analysts or quality control personnel can now assume on-field coaching roles. Senior defensive analyst Kevin McGarry, who has worked closely with Tony White at both San Diego State and Syracuse, could potentially provide invaluable knowledge of White's defensive strategies to assist with coaching the defensive backs.

With the imminent hiring of John Butler and potential support from Kevin McGarry, Nebraska is confident in their ability to overcome this setback and continue their preparations for the upcoming season. The Cornhuskers are determined to maintain their competitive edge and build upon the progress made in recent years.